Winterfest Student Showcases: Through Dec. 30, various times, Armory. Student Showcases provide entertainment as part of our seasonal offerings and give aspiring young peformers the opportunity to share their artistic accomplishments with family, friends and the public. More information at: www.seattlecenter.com/studentshowcases.

New Year’s Eve Celebration; Dec. 31, 8 p.m. – 12 a.m., Armory and on the grounds. Greet the New Year with two free signature events at Seattle Center. Rock band The Machine plays the Armory Stage, 8 p.m. to midnight, while outside the Fountain of Light dance party mounts a live electronic music and video projection show by local DJs and VJs starting, 10 p.m. at International Fountain. Revelers may pick up free party favors, compliments of T-Mobile, and purchase foods from Armory merchants as they await the luminous midnight fireworks. More information at: www.seattlecenter.com/winterfest.

Seattle Center Winterfest, produced by Seattle Center, presents spirited programming for families and friends in search of entertaining, enriching and fun activities during this festive time of year. Find more information at: www.seattecenter.com or call 206-684-7200.

Pacific Northwest Ballet’s beloved production of The Nutcracker continues through Dec. 28. Seattle Children’s Theatre, Seattle Repertory Theatre, Book-It Repertory Theatre, Teatro ZinZanni, MoPOP, Seattle Children’s Museum, Pacific Science Center, Chihuly Garden and Glass and the Space Needle also invite the community to experience the mirth and merriment of this time of year.

Following are some of the offerings visitors will find this weekend at Seattle Center. All admissions are free of charge, unless indicated:

Winterfest Student Showcases: Through Dec. 30, various times, Armory. Student Showcases provide entertainment as part of our seasonal offerings and give aspiring young peformers the opportunity to share their artistic accomplishments with family, friends and the public. More information at: www.seattlecenter.com/studentshowcases.

Seattle Center Winterfest, produced by Seattle Center, presents spirited programming for families and friends in search of entertaining, enriching and fun activities during this festive time of year. Find more information at: www.seattecenter.com or call 206-684-7200.

]]>Seattle Center Winterfest – Opening Weekendhttp://centerspotlight.seattle.gov/2016/11/10/730/
Thu, 10 Nov 2016 18:53:59 +0000http://centerspotlight.seattle.gov/?p=730Seattle Center Winterfest opens on Friday, Nov. 25 with a long weekend of live entertainment featuring time honored traditions, high energy performances and hilarious antics sure to lift the spirit and ease one and all into the festive holiday season. The five-week festival, running through Dec. 31, welcomes the return of Winter Train & Village, Winterfest Ice Rink and a wonderland of sparkling lights and fun-filled, family activities in Seattle Center Armory, Fisher Pavilion and on the grounds of Seattle Center.

Puget Sound A Cappella; Nov. 25, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m., Armory. Reflecting the amazing creativity and talent found at one of the nation’s top visual and performing arts institutions, this Cornish College student ensemble delivers incredible harmonies of jazz standard favorites. More information at: Puget-Sound-A-Cappella.

The Zaniac Comedy Show; Nov. 25, 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m., Armory. This Guinness World Record holder, voted Seattle’s Funniest Prop Comic, has appeared on prime-time TV in three countries. Alex, a Hacky Sack World Champion, was ranked Seattle’s 3rd Best Air Guitarist! Audiences freak out in a good way when they see Alex perform. More information at: Zaniac Comedy.

Kristin Chambers “Snow Globe;” Nov. 25, 2 p.m. – 3 p.m., Armory. This prolific, acclaimed singer-songwriter floats effortlessly between genres, from bluesy ballads and folksy anthems to spirited pop songs. For Winterfest, she shares the warmth and joy of the holiday season with excerpts from her album. More information at: Kristin Chambers.

The Magic of Budd & Durgin; Nov. 27, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m., Armory. Get ready for a high energy, award-winning comedic act presented by two highly talented gentlemen who make comedy their lives. With quick wit and lightning fast hands, Michael and Cary boast multiple 1st place awards in magic and numerous awestruck audiences.

Lelavision; Nov. 27, 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m., Armory. Lelavision completely integrates music and movement, with choreography emerging from ingenious musical sculptures in a dynamic display of physical agility and musical prowess buoyed by an intrinsic sense of humor. Performances are centered around themes of invention, discovery and play. More information at: Lelavision.

Hot Dog USA; Nov. 27, 2 p.m. – 3 p.m., Armory. The Hot Dog USA Jump Rope Team inspires, motivates and educates people of all ages, while fostering jump rope competitions, workshops and performances around the world. The team consists of about 50 boys and girls ranging in age from six years old to adult. More information at: Hot Dog USA.

Winterfest Student Showcases; Nov. 27 – Dec. 31, various times, Armory. The Showcases provide entertainment as part of our seasonal offerings, and they offer public and private school groups the opportunity to share their artistic accomplishments with family, friends and the public. Seattle Center Student Showcases.

Seattle Center Winterfest, produced by Seattle Center, presents spirited programming for one and all in search of entertaining and enriching activities during this festive time of year. For more information, visit Seattle Center or call 206 684-7200. Winterfest images are available upon request.

About Seattle Center Winterfest – Connect to the sights, sounds and spirit of the season at Seattle Center Winterfest, five weeks of free and affordable, fun-filled activities and entertainment, Nov. 25 – Dec.31. Visit the festive Seattle Center Armory, displaying its winter finest, and explore the olden Winter Train & Village. The Winterfest Ice Rink returns, along with ice sculpting, student showcases and more. Seattle Center Winterfest is part of Holidays in Seattle, and is sponsored by Coca-Cola, T-Mobile, Alaska Airlines, Seattle Center Monorail and the City of Seattle.

Garfield Jazz Band; Dec. 12, 12:30pm-1:30pm, Armory — Join Garfield Jazz Band for a special holiday concert and hear why this amazingly talented, award-winning student ensemble has earned a national reputation in the genre of jazz. Garfield Jazz.

Klez Kidz; Dec. 13, 2pm-3pm, Armory — This multi-generational, 40-piece ensemble brings to life Jewish music and mirth from around the world including Jewish folk songs, Chassidic rock, Yiddish swing and works by contemporary Jewish composers. Listen for the wail of the clarinet, see bottles balanced on the heads of dancers and maybe even learn some new dance steps yourself!

Winter Train & Village; through – Dec. 31, Armory — A turn-of-the-century, miniature community blanketed in snow beckons visitors to gaze into an idyllic past – and even take a turn controlling the model train, in operations between 10:30am-12pm, 1pm-2:30pm and 3:30pm-5:30pm daily. $2 suggested donation. Seattle Center Winterfest.

Winterfest Student Showcases; through Dec. 31, various times, Armory — The Showcases provide entertainment as part of our seasonal offerings, and they offer public and private school groups the opportunity to share their artistic accomplishments with family, friends and the public. Winterfest Student Showcases.

In addition, several holiday focused events are happening around the grounds on Saturday and Sunday including Seattle’s Coolest Santa & His Out-Of-this-World Workshop at the Space Needle, The Nutcracker at Pacific Northwest Ballet, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang at Seattle Children’s Theatre, Come From Away and Jinkx Monsson & Major Scales: Unwrappedat Seattle Repertory Theatre and the Total Experience Gospel Choir Sunday afternoon at Chihuly Garden and Glass.

Seattle Center Winterfest, produced by Seattle Center, presents spirited programming for families and friends in search of entertaining and enriching activities during this festive time of year. For more information, visit Seattle Center or call 206 684-7200.

]]>CookieFest – Dec. 12 in Armory Loftshttp://centerspotlight.seattle.gov/2015/11/30/cookiefest-dec-12-in-armory-lofts/
Tue, 01 Dec 2015 00:04:50 +0000http://centerspotlight.seattle.gov/?p=652We at Seattle Center are so pleased that CookieFest 2015 – Seattle’s Ultimate Pop-Up Bake Sale – is coming to Seattle Center Armory Lofts on Saturday, Dec. 12. Here’s what you need to know to take advantage of this outstanding cookie acquisition opportunity in support of a great cause.

CookieFest 2015 is Seattle’s ultimate pop-up bake sale! Local pastry artisans unite to sell thousands upon thousands of delectable, holiday-inspired treats for a good cause. Start your holiday excursion at CookieFest during Seattle Center Winterfest starting at 10 am on the 12th.

All proceeds from CookieFest go to Seattle Milk Fund’s Child Care & Family Support Program. Seattle Milk Fund provides child care grants and family support to low-income, full-time students at King County colleges and universities. While parents are in school, their children receive a valuable learning opportunity in a licensed, quality child care facility or preschool. Seattle Milk Fund helps parents realize their higher education potential, which can create a brighter and more stable financial future for their families.

CookieFest cookies are priced at $15 per dozen or $1.50 each. There will be bakery boxes on hand, however feel free to bring cookie tins or Tupperware. Also, a bag to hold your sweet confections would be a good idea. CookieFest loyalists typically begin arriving about an hour before opening. Once the doors open, the line moves fast.Nothing goes better with cookies than milk—enjoy FREE milk from Darigold!

CookieFest is sponsored by Macy’s, National Frozen Foods, and Darigold. Visit Seattle Milk Fund for additional information on CookieFest.

]]>Seattle Center Winterfest Opening Weekend – Nov. 27-29http://centerspotlight.seattle.gov/2015/11/10/seattle-center-winterfest-opening-weekend-nov-27-29/
Tue, 10 Nov 2015 22:42:08 +0000http://centerspotlight.seattle.gov/?p=647Seattle Center Winterfest starts off the season with a long weekend of live entertainment featuring time honored traditions, high energy performances and hilarious antics. The five-week festival, Nov. 27 – Dec. 31, also welcomes the return of Winter Train & Village and Winterfest Ice Rink, along with a wonderland of sparkling lights and fun-filled activities for the whole family in Seattle Center Armory, Fisher Pavilion and throughout the grounds of Seattle Center. All programming is presented free-of-charge, unless otherwise noted.

Here is a listing of opening weekend activities:

Dickens Carolers; Nov. 27 and 29, 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Armory. This quartet of costumed Victorian carolers has become a cherished Seattle tradition over its many melodic years. Listen as the performers sing in perfect, four-part harmony. Dickens Carolers.

Highlanders Pipe Band; Nov. 27, 12:30 p.m.-1:30 p.m., Armory. Since 1952, the Keith Highlanders Pipe Band has delighted audiences with traditional Scottish piping, drumming and dancing. As the official pipe band of the Clan Keith, a rare designation outside Scotland, the Highlanders have performed internationally and throughout the Pacific Northwest. Highlander Pipe Band.

3rd Shift Dance; Nov. 27, 2 p.m.-3 p.m., Armory. Since Seattle native Xaviera Vandermay founded 3rd Shift Dance in 2010, she has shared her unique take on contemporary dance with audiences across the region, collaborating with film director Nils Osmar, indie band Dark Hip Falls, and Microsoft. 3rd Shift Dance.

Zaniac Comedy Show; Nov. 28, 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Armory. This Guinness World Record holder, voted Seattle’s Funniest Prop Comic, has appeared on prime-time TV in three countries. Alex, a Hacky Sack World Champion, was ranked Seattle’s 3rd Best Air Guitarist! Audiences everywhere freak out in a good way when they see Alex perform. Zaniac Comedy.

Hot Dog USA; Nov. 29, 12:30 p.m.-1:30 p.m., Armory. The 50 boys and girls, ages six to adult, of the jump rope team Hot Dog USA have inspired, motivated and educated people of all ages, while fostering regional, national and international jump rope competitions, workshops and performances. Hot Dog USA.

SANCA IMPulse; Nov. 28 and 29, 2 p.m.-3 p.m., Armory. These artists-in-residence at Seattle’s School of Acrobatics & New Circus Arts have performed on stages and in circus rings throughout the world, drawing inspiration from contemporary circus, vaudeville and theatre to create accessible and exciting circus shows. SANCA Seattle.

Winterfest Ice Sculpting; Saturdays, Nov. 28 and Dec. 5, 12, 19 and 26, 12 p.m.-2 p.m., Fisher Apron. Watch internationally acclaimed, award-winning artists at work as they create seasonal ice sculptures – or stop by later to see the glistening result. Each Saturday an ice master carves a different design. Seattle Center Winterfest.

Winterfest Student Showcases; Nov. 27 – Dec. 31, various times, Armory. The Showcases provide entertainment as part of our seasonal offerings, and they offer public and private school groups the opportunity to share their artistic accomplishments with family, friends and the public. Student Showcases.

Seattle Center Winterfest, produced by Seattle Center, presents spirited programming for families and friends in search of entertaining and enriching activities during this festive time of year. For more information, visit Seattle Center or call 206 684-7200.

]]>New Year’s Eve at Seattle Centerhttp://centerspotlight.seattle.gov/2014/12/18/new-years-eve-at-seattle-center-2/
Thu, 18 Dec 2014 22:49:57 +0000http://centerspotlight.seattle.gov/?p=572Seattle Center offers many extraordinary ways to ring in the New Year on Wednesday, Dec. 31. Center venues feature live music, dancing, specialty drinks and, of course, lots of bubbly for those 21 years of age and older. The entire Seattle Center campus will be become the region’s premier place for revelry with thousands of free giveaways from T-Mobile for those awaiting the amazing pyrotechnic effects fired from 72 different locations on the iconic Space Needle.

The following events present a variety of New Year’s Eve experiences, with the price of entry starting at free-of-charge. They all offer live entertainment and a front row seat for the brilliant midnight fireworks spectacular.

Chihuly Garden and Glass: Ring in 2015 under the city’s most iconic fireworks display, viewed through the glass ceiling of Chihuly Garden and Glass. Dine on delicious appetizers and desserts from Collections Café and dance to the sounds of the ever-popular Michael Benson Band. Then enjoy a glass of sparkling wine and take in the fireworks in the stunning surroundings of the Glasshouse. Guests must be 21+. Doors open at 8 p.m. www.chihulygardenandglass.com/events/newyears.

EMP Museum, Indulgence: New Year’s Eve Bash: Enjoy a variety of experiences and musical styles, with over 25 bars, four areas of live entertainment, three performance stages, a theater featuring comedy performances, and access to the EMP’s astounding 80,000 artifact collection. Doors open at 8 p.m. This event is 21+. EMP Museum NYE Bash

Pacific Science Center, SPECTRA 2015: New Year’s Eve Under the Arches: Signature cocktails, flutes of bubbly delivered via aerialist, and live demonstrations on the science of the spherical will intrigue and delight and the expansive exhibit halls, planetarium, and Laser Dome will open for exploration. Top DJs from KEXP 90.3 FM will spin songs until it’s time to venture to the courtyard for an unobstructed view of the fireworks. Guests must be 21+. Doors open at 8:30 p.m. www.pacificsciencecenter.org/spectra.

Seattle Center Winterfest, THE NINES: This super fun, five-piece band performs the sounds of the 1970‘s to today’s greatest hits including Studio 54 funk, synth pop, and party rock. Their trademark high energy and pure professionalism will inspire revelers to dance the night away! A part of Seattle Center Winterfest, this FREE event starts at 8 p.m. in Seattle Center Armory. More details at www.seattlecenter.com/winterfest.

Space Needle, T-Mobile New Year’s at the Needle: This 30th annual fireworks spectacular presents an amazing pyrotechnic display, accompanied by a special mix of music provided by T-Mobile partner KEXP 90.3 FM. Gala New Year’s Eve parties are held on the Observation Deck and at the SkyCity restaurant. The Deck opens at 9 p.m. Guests must be 21 and over. Space Needle.

Teatro ZinZanni, New Year’s Eve Celebration: Pre-show entertainment, specialty drinks and appetizers, and Teatro ZinZanni’s delightful production of Hacienda Holiday accompany a delicious multi-course feast and an array of gourmet desserts. After the show, DJ Vodka Twist will spin hits for dancing in the spiegeltent until 1 a.m., pausing only for a midnight champagne toast and a stellar view of the Space Needle fireworks. More information at Teatro Zinzanni New Year’s Eve.

For more information on New Year’s Eve at Seattle Center, and all of the wintertime activities at Seattle Center, visit Seattle Center or call 206 684-7200.

]]>Winterfest & Winter Breakhttp://centerspotlight.seattle.gov/2014/12/17/winterfest-winter-break/
Thu, 18 Dec 2014 00:26:36 +0000http://centerspotlight.seattle.gov/?p=570Visiting family and friends, students on winter break and those in search of fun, free activities to awaken the holiday spirit and fill the heart with joy will find a plethora of possibilities at Seattle Center Winterfest, now through Dec. 31. They will discover a festively decorated Seattle Center Armory and a miniature Winter Train & Village, trees drenched in sparkling lights, ice staking every day, Saturday ice sculpting, and a delightful line-up of live weekend entertainment.

Winterfest Student Showcases, Now – Dec. 30, varied times, Seattle Center Armory, free. Seattle Center Student Showcases fill the Seattle Center Armory Atrium with the sounds and sights of the season as they offer public and private schools and youth groups the opportunity to share their artistic accomplishments with family, friends, and the public. Check online at: www.seattlecenter.com/winterfest for a full schedule of performances.

The Mood Swings, 12:30 p.m.-1:30 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 20, Seattle Center Armory, free. Aiming to inspire a love of jazz in the community and a culture of camaraderie and empowerment among its female musicians of all ages, the six female founding members have grown the talented group into a true big band, with hundreds of tunes to its repertoire, regularly presenting high-energy, fun-filled performances throughout the Northwest. www.moodswingsjazz.org.

Klez Kidz, 12:30 p.m.-1:30 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 28, Seattle Center Armory, free. This 40-piece ensemble brings to life a multiplicty of Jewish music and mirth from around the world. Listen and you’ll hear the wail of the clarinet in rousing song, see bottles being balanced on the heads of dancers, and maybe even learn some new dance steps yourself! www.templebetham.org/music-and-arts/klezkids.

New Year’s Eve Celebration with THE NINES, 8 p.m.-11:45 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 31, Seattle Center Armory, free. This super fun, five-piece band takes you through the sounds of the 1970‘s to today’s greatest hits including Studio 54 funk, synth pop, and party rock. With world class male and female lead vocals, THE NINES will have you dancing the night away as you await the spectacular midnight fireworks just outside the Armory doors! www.lovethenines.com.

Seattle Center Winterfest, produced by Seattle Center, presents spirited programming for children, families and friends in search of entertaining and enriching activities during this festive time of year. For more information, visit www.seattecenter.com or call 206 684-7200.

]]>Holidays in Seattle is LIVEhttp://centerspotlight.seattle.gov/2014/11/20/holidays-in-seattle-is-live/
Fri, 21 Nov 2014 00:38:18 +0000http://centerspotlight.seattle.gov/?p=567For each of the past six years, Seattle Center has joined Downtown Seattle Association, Visit Seattle and the Metropolitan Improvement District in a campaign to highlight the truly extraordinary variety of festive and fun holiday activities in Downtown Seattle. An essential element of the Holidays in Seattle is a stunning, highly functional, interactive holiday website designed to keep visitors up-to-date on Downtown Seattle’s arts and cultural events, family activities, dining, shopping, travel, hospitality opportunities and special deals.

Click on HolidaysInSeattle.com and you’ll find a packed calendar of attractions, events and performances to create your own Downtown experience, perfectly tailored to your personal desires and tastes. The site links to a remarkable range of activities, indulgences and traditional favorites such as the Argosy Christmas Ship Festival, Seattle Center Winterfest and all of the happenings that transform Downtown Seattle into a magical winter wonderland.

The site also offers visitor information, important tips on getting to and around the Downtown core, and parking guidance. You’ll also learn about the first-ever Holiday Recharge Lounge powered by Alaska Airlines. This mobile responsive site also serves as a travel resource with information on special hotel packages, holiday travel tips, and special hospitality deals.

Filipino Youth Activities Drill Team: 11 am-12 pm, Friday, Nov. 28, Seattle Center Armory, free. The Mandayan Marchers, Princessa Drill Team, and the Cumbanchero Percussioners comprise the Drill Team. Created in 1959, the team currently sports 60 kids, ages six to 19, whose movements and formations, performed to music strongly inspired by Latin, Muslim, and modern beats, are filled with precision and timing. www.facebook.com/pages/FYA-Drill-Team/134245983264202?sk=info.

Keith Highlanders Pipe Band: 2 pm-3 pm, Friday, Nov. 28, Seattle Center Armory, free. Dedicated to heightening the awareness of traditional Scottish piping, drumming, and dancing in the Pacific Northwest, the Keith Highlanders Pipe Band has a long history of delighting the Seattle community with its resonant and enduring sounds. Formed in 1952, it is the official pipe band of the Clan Keith (a rare designation outside Scotland), performing internationally and throughout the Northwest. www.khpb.org.

Winterfest Student Showcases: Nov. 29 – Dec. 30, varied times, Seattle Center Armory, free. Seattle Center Student Showcases fill the Seattle Center Armory Atrium with the sounds and sights of the season as they offer public and private schools and youth groups the opportunity to share their artistic accomplishments with family, friends, and the public. Over 150 performances and 5,864 student performers). Check online at: Seattle Center Winterfest for a full schedule of performances.

Ice Sculpting: 12 pm-2 pm, Saturdays, Nov. 29 and Dec. 6, 13, 20, and 27, Fisher Apron, free. Artistry and ice unite in a glorious and temporal expression of the season. Watch internationally acclaimed, award-winning artists at work as they create seasonal sculptures — or stop by later to see the glistening result. Each Saturday an ice master will carve a different design. Seattle Center Winterfest.

The Cabiri and Radost Present Carpathian Dawn: 2 pm-3 pm, Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 29 – 30, Seattle Center Armory, free. The Cabiri preserves the mythologies of cultures that have passed into antiquity through physical theater, dance, aerial arts, stilts, puppetry, and just a bit of fairy dust. The performers will transport you into worlds outside of time. Join as they travel into misty nights beneath the waxing crescent moon to mysterious places where anything is possible. The Cabiri.

Bailadores de Bronce: 12:30 p.m.-1:30 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 7, Seattle Center Armory, free. Introducing the most positive aspects of the Mexican culture to the broader community, the Bailadores break down cultural barriers and build bridges as they teach and perform Mexican folkloric dances. The high energy and enthusiasm of the dancers transcends the stage, while their beautiful costumes convey the richness of their culture. www.bailadoresdebronce.org.

Garfield Jazz Band: 12:30 p.m.-1:30 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 14, Seattle Center Armory, free. Under the brilliant leadership of Clarence Acox, Garfield High School brings to young people the jazz traditions of nation’s great big bands. A frequent participant in the highly competitive Essentially Ellington National Jazz Band Competition and Festival at Lincoln Center in New York City, the Garfield Jazz program has nurtured instrumentalists who have gone on to study at leading music schools throughout the country. Garfield Jazz Band.

The Mood Swings: 12:30 pm-1:30 pm, Saturday, Dec. 20, Seattle Center Armory, free. Aiming to inspire a love of jazz in the community and a culture of camaraderie and empowerment among its female musicians of all ages, the six female founding members have grown the talented group into a true big band, with hundreds of tunes to its repertoire, regularly presenting high-energy, fun-filled performances throughout the Northwest. The Mood Swings.

KlezKidz: 12:30 pm-1:30 pm, Sunday, Dec. 28, Seattle Center Armory, free. This 40-piece ensemble brings to life a multiplicty of Jewish music and mirth from around the world. Listen and you’ll hear the wail of the clarinet in rousing song, see bottles being balanced on the heads of dancers, and maybe even learn some new dance steps yourself! Klez Kids.

New Year’s Eve Celebration with THE NINES: 8 pm-11:45 pm, Wednesday, Dec. 31, Seattle Center Armory, free. This super fun, five-piece band takes you through the sounds of the 1970‘s to today’s greatest hits including Studio 54 funk, synth pop, and party rock. With world class male and female lead vocals, THE NINES will have you dancing the night away as you await the spectacular midnight fireworks just outside the Armory doors! Love The NINES.

Seattle Center Winterfest, produced by Seattle Center, presents spirited programming for children, families and friends in search of entertaining and enriching activities during this festive time of year. For more information, visit Seattle Center or call 206 684-7200.